Juventus lock in Vicario, leaving Martínez’s Villa future in doubt

Juventus completed the signing of Italian goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario from Tottenham Hotspur on Monday, a move that definitively ends any chance of bringing Argentine international Dibu Martínez to the club. The 33‑year‑old now faces an increasingly uncomfortable position at Aston Villa as the Birmingham side pursues Japanese keeper Zion Suzuki.

Juventus seal Vicario deal

Juventus offered 6 million euros for Martínez, but Aston Villa rejected the bid, insisting on at least 15 million euros. The failed negotiation was confirmed by Fabrizio Romano, who wrote, “Juventus, Aston Villa and the environment of Emiliano Martínez all call the agreement 100% cancelled tonight.” The collapse of the deal was reported by El Mundo and De La.

Physical concerns also weighed on Juventus’ decision. Martínez, who fractured a finger before the Europa League final, chose to play the World Cup final for Argentina without surgery, leaving the Turin club uneasy about his medical risk.

Vicario, 29, arrived in London in 2023 for 23 million dollars and amassed nearly 120 appearances for Tottenham. After Roberto De Zerbi’s arrival, he lost the starting spot to Czech keeper Antonín Kinský. Juventus secured him on an initial loan with an option to buy for 8.6 million pounds, roughly 11.6 million dollars.

Aston Villa near €35 million agreement for Japanese keeper Zion Suzuki

Villa pushes for Suzuki

Aston Villa accelerated formal steps to sign Zion Suzuki from Parma for around 40 million dollars after Paris Saint‑Germain’s verbal deal fell through over commission disputes. The club has already arranged a medical examination for the Japanese goalkeeper.

Unai Emery confirmed that Martínez will re‑join training on Wednesday alongside teammates Ollie Watkins and Ezri Konsa, stating, “They finished the season on 19 July and I gave them four weeks to rest, which is completely necessary.” Emery’s comments hint at a potential reshuffle in goalkeeping duties.

Martínez’s uncertain future

Agent Gustavo Goni had previously said Martínez would only leave with Aston Villa’s approval and a satisfactory agreement. That condition was not met by Juventus, and Chelsea also dismissed an earlier proposal for the Argentine.

With less than two weeks remaining in the European transfer window, Martínez faces the prospect of staying at Villa Park while the club moves closer to securing Suzuki, a development that could dramatically alter his role.